Tributes have been left for a teenage boy whose body was pulled from the River Irwell at a Salford park. Emergency services descended on Clifton Country Park, near Swinton, last Saturday evening (June 27). A major search operation was launched, with crews working through to Monday. Tragically, the search came to an end when his body was recovered from the water.
Flowers have been left at the scene of the tragedy this week. The teenager has since been named locally as Leon, with multiple pictures of the youngster left at the scene. Heartbreaking tributes have also been left for Leon both at the park and by friends on TikTok over recent days. On one photograph of Leon at the scene, a tribute says: "Rest in peace King Leon... RIP angel." Another tribute says: "Leon the champion... rest in peace now angel."
Police Statement on Death
Greater Manchester Police previously said there were not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding his death. Detective Inspector Dave Ogden, from Salford CID, previously said: "Saturday’s incident is truly heart breaking, and my thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of the young boy who has so tragically lost his life. While we are satisfied there are no suspicious circumstances, this incident is an incredibly upsetting reminder of the serious risks associated with open water. We understand people want to make the most of the warm weather, but we would urge everyone to stay safe and avoid entering reservoirs, rivers, canals or ponds. Please take care and enjoy the weather in a safe way."
Context of Water Deaths
Leon was one of three people to have suffered a water-related death last weekend in Greater Manchester. The body of a teenage boy was pulled from Cowbury Reservoir, near Stalybridge, while the body of a woman in her 60s was recovered from water at Island Lodge, Tottington, on Sunday.
